As the complexities of parenthood mount, it’s easy to feel inundated by advice and strategies, as highlighted by Sarah Watts in The New York Times. For every dilemma you encounter—breastfeeding versus formula, or whether to prioritize music lessons or academic tutoring—there’s a plethora of information vying for your attention. Many parents feel pressured to adopt specific identities like “Attachment Parent” or “Free-Range Parent.” However, these labels can become burdensome. Below are seven parenting styles I’ve let go since my second child arrived.
1. Adorable Lunchbox Aesthetic
With my first child, I invested in charming accessories—not just cribs and strollers, but also whimsical items like polar bear-shaped snack containers from Etsy. Fast forward to my second child, and everything seems to be well-loved. Now, my older child heads off to school with lunch packed in a dented yogurt cup and a well-used mint tin.
2. Polished Wardrobe Parenting
Before kids, I relished finding stylish outfits. I maintained this after my first but now, with two children? I’m fighting the urge to embrace full-on loungewear. As my friend Amy wisely puts it, “Don’t go gracefully into that frumpy attire.” So I’ve settled for black, comfortable pants and tops with a relaxed fit, a compromise between chic and casual.
3. Zombie Parent Mode
Remember biology class when you could make a frog twitch with a pin? That’s how I feel when my son yells in the middle of the night—like a startled creature prodded awake. Instead of rushing to his side, I’ve learned to pause for a moment, hoping he’ll settle back down on his own. More often than not, that initial cry is merely a fleeting protest.
4. Overly Diplomatic Parenting
I used to kneel to my child’s height and earnestly negotiate, “Oliver, we should think about heading home soon since it’s almost dinner time, alright?” Yet, my preverbal child just screamed when I attempted to coax him away from the playground. Now, I simply assert, “Time to go,” and we leave. They may still cry, but at least I’m not caught in a futile discussion.
5. Evening Sip Parenting
With my first child, I enjoyed an early cocktail while preparing dinner. However, with the arrival of the second, I need to keep my wits about me, or I risk being overwhelmed by two energetic kids. Now, I reserve my drinks for after bedtime, when I can finally unwind.
6. Intensive Eye Contact Parenting
Initially, I was fully engrossed in every moment with my infant, adhering to attachment parenting principles. I hovered over him during playtime, ensuring we maintained a connection. However, life gets busy, and children thrive just fine without constant supervision. Now, when my second child appears in the kitchen, I’m often surprised, as if rediscovering them anew.
7. Obsessive Cleaning Parenting
Why is there always something on the floor? This remains a mystery of parenthood. I once cleaned obsessively, scrubbing surfaces daily. These days, I merely give the dirt a quick wipe and move on, prioritizing my time and sanity over spotless floors.
In conclusion, as parenting evolves, it’s natural to shed certain practices that no longer fit. Each child brings unique challenges and joys, prompting a more pragmatic approach to daily life. For further insights on navigating the journey of parenthood, you might explore resources like Healthline for valuable information on pregnancy and Make a Mom for guidance on your couples fertility journey. Additionally, if you’re interested in enhancing your chances of conception, check out Make a Mom for thoughtful suggestions.
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